It is controversial

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "It is controversial" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a topic or issue that has differing opinions or is subject to debate. Example: "The new policy on climate change is controversial, with many experts divided on its potential impact."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is controversial.

The Economist

"It is controversial," Mr. Conant said.

The New York Times - Health

"It is controversial," said Pastor Peter Nunziante of the Upper Room.

The New York Times

It is controversial how best to classify conditionals.

SEP

It is controversial enough to identify it as feminist!

SEP

It is controversial whether psychopaths are insane according to the standard set by the M'Naughten rules since it is controversial whether psychopaths know that their actions are wrong.

SEP

It is controversial whether rhodopsin forms oligomers and whether oligomers are functionally relevant.

Structure

It is controversial whether or not performing repeat metastasectomy from PDAC is of oncological benefit.

Surgical Case Reports

It is controversial whether antidepressants could improve cognitive symptoms in schizophrenia patients.

Psychiatry Research

It is controversial whether to plan single-stage or two-stage surgery.

Surgical Case Reports

It is controversial whether such claims are justifiable (see Radick 2005 for a recent attempt).

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is controversial" to introduce topics where multiple viewpoints exist, encouraging further discussion and critical evaluation. Avoid using it to dismiss an idea outright.

Common error

Don't simply state "it is controversial" without explaining why. Provide context or different perspectives to add value to your statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is controversial" functions as an introductory statement that signals the presence of conflicting opinions or unresolved debate surrounding a particular topic. As Ludwig AI shows, it prefaces various subjects across diverse domains.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is controversial" is a versatile phrase used to introduce subjects marked by significant disagreement. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and common usage across domains like science, news, and encyclopedias. The phrase serves as a flag, alerting readers to the presence of multiple viewpoints and inviting critical evaluation. While grammatically sound, it’s best practice to provide context when using it, explaining the nature and reasons behind the controversy. Alternatives like "it is debatable" or "opinions are divided" can offer slightly different nuances, but all signal the existence of unsettled opinions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

It is debatable

Changes from a general statement of controversy to highlighting the act of debating the topic.

It is disputed

Focuses on the fact that there's an active dispute regarding the subject.

It is contested

Emphasizes the act of actively challenging or fighting against a particular idea or decision.

It is questionable

Shifts the focus to the uncertainty or doubt surrounding the issue.

It is arguable

Highlights that a case can be made for different viewpoints.

It is contentious

Indicates that the issue is likely to cause arguments or disagreements.

It is uncertain

Focuses on the lack of definitive knowledge or agreement.

It is unsettled

Suggests that the issue is not yet resolved or decided.

Opinions are divided

Moves from a statement about the topic to the different opinions surrounding it.

There is no consensus

Highlights the lack of general agreement on the matter.

FAQs

How can I use "it is controversial" in a sentence?

You can use "it is controversial" to introduce a topic that elicits strong disagreement or debate. For example, "The new economic policy "it is controversial", with experts disagreeing on its effectiveness".

What are some alternatives to "it is controversial"?

Some alternatives include "it is debatable", "it is disputed", or "opinions are divided", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "it is controversial"?

Use "it is controversial" when addressing topics that genuinely have multiple, conflicting viewpoints and significant disagreement. Avoid using it for matters of settled fact or personal preference.

What's the difference between "it is controversial" and "it is disputed"?

"It is controversial" suggests a topic is subject to strong disagreement and debate, while "it is disputed" implies there is an active disagreement or challenge to the validity or truth of something. The former is broader, the latter more specific.